The minutes were confirmed on 11.7.2019 without amendment.

Minutes of the Third Meeting of the Traffic and Transport Committee under the District Council in 2019

Date:9 May 2019 (Thursday)

Time: 10:00a.m. – 4:10p.m.

Venue: Conference Room, Council, 13/F., Yuen Long Government Offices, 2 Kiu Lok Square, Yuen Long

Present Time of Arrival Time of Withdrawal Chairman: Mr CHING Chan-ming (Beginning of the meeting) (End of the meeting) Vice-chairman: Mr MAK Ip-sing (Beginning of the meeting) (End of the meeting) Member: Mr CHAM Ka-hung, Daniel, (Beginning of the meeting) (3:30 p.m.) BBS, MH, JP Ms CHAN Mei-lin (Beginning of the meeting) (End of the meeting) Mr CHAN Sze-ching (Beginning of the meeting) (12:15 p.m.) Mr CHEUNG Muk-lam (Beginning of the meeting) (End of the meeting) Ms CHIU Sau-han, MH (Beginning of the meeting) (3:30 p.m.) Mr CHOW Wing-kan (Beginning of the meeting) (End of the meeting) Mr KWOK Hing-ping (Beginning of the meeting) (11:30 a.m.) Mr KWOK Keung, MH (Beginning of the meeting) (End of the meeting) The Hon KWONG Chun-yu (10:10 a.m.) (11:30 a.m.) Mr LAI Wai-hung (Beginning of the meeting) (12:20 p.m.) Ms LAU Kwai-yung (10:15 a.m.) (3:00 p.m.) Mr LEE Yuet-man, MH (10:10 a.m.) (End of the meeting) Mr LEUNG Ming-kin (Beginning of the meeting) (End of the meeting) Mr LUI Kin, MH (10:10 a.m.) (3:20 p.m.) Ms MA Shuk-yin (10:10 a.m.) (End of the meeting) Mr SHUM Ho-kit, JP (Beginning of the meeting) (3:35 p.m.) Mr SIU Long-ming, MH (10:15 a.m.) (3:30 p.m.) Mr TANG Cheuk-him (11:00 a.m.) (1:30 p.m.) Mr TANG Cheuk-yin (Beginning of the meeting) (12:20 p.m.) Mr TANG Hing-ip, BBS (Beginning of the meeting) (4:00 p.m.) Mr TANG Ka-leung (Beginning of the meeting) (3:35 p.m.) Mr TANG Yung-yiu, Ronnie (Beginning of the meeting) (12:25 p.m.) Mr TO Ka-lun (10:30 a.m.) (End of the meeting) Mr WONG Cheuk-kin (Beginning of the meeting) (End of the meeting) Ms WONG Wai-ling (10:10 a.m.) (End of the meeting) Mr WONG Wai-shun, MH (10:15 a.m.) (3:30 p.m.) Mr WONG Wai-yin, Zachary (10:40 a.m.) (End of the meeting) Mr YIU Kwok-wai (Beginning of the meeting) (3:00 p.m.) Mr YOUNG Ka-on (Beginning of the meeting) (End of the meeting) Ms YUEN Man-yee (Beginning of the meeting) (3:10 p.m.)

1 Co-opted members: Mr CHAN Tin-yam (10:20 a.m.) (12:15 p.m.) Mr CHEUNG Wai-sum (Beginning of the meeting) (12:00 p.m.) Mr CHUI Kwan-siu (10:15 a.m.) (End of the meeting) Ms KWOK Ching-yin (13:30 p.m.) (3:20 p.m.) Mr LAM Ting-wai (Beginning of the meeting) (End of the meeting) Mr LI Kai-lap, Riben (Beginning of the meeting) (2:00 p.m.) Mr NG Ka-leung (Beginning of the meeting) (12:00 p.m.) Mr TANG Kam-fai (Beginning of the meeting) (11:30 a.m.)

Secretary Miss WONG Chung-wai, Leah Executive Officer (District Council)2, Yuen Long District Council

In Attendance Miss POON Wai-yi, Joanna Assistant District Officer (Yuen Long)2, Yuen Long District Office Ms TAM Lok-yan, Carol Senior Transport Officer/Yuen Long 1, Transport Department Mr LEUNG Ka-lok, Kelvin Senior Transport Officer/Yuen Long 2, Transport Department Mr CHAN Ting Hong, Terence Engineer/Infrastructure Projects, Transport Department Mr LEE Kar-chun, Wilson Engineer/Yuen Long East, Transport Department Mr MAN Ka-ho, Wilson Engineer/Yuen Long West, Transport Department Mr AU Kin-chung District Engineer/G(1)A, Highways Department Mr SHIH Yung-chi District Engineer/Yuen Long (West), Highways Department Mr TO Kai-cho Engineer/16(West), Civil Engineering and Development Department Ms LAU Hung-yin Operations Officer/Yuen Long District/ Police Force Mr LEUNG Wai-yip, Joe Traffic Branch Sergeant/Yuen Long District/ Hong Kong Police Force Mr FUNG Yu-ting Assistant Housing Manager/T(YLG5), Housing Department Mr NG Ping-tong Administrative Assistant/Lands (District Lands Office, Yuen Long), Lands Department

Items 3 Mr YIU Chiu-chung Senior Engineer 2/Universal Accessibility, Highways Department Mr HUI Chi-hung Engineer 6/Universal Accessibility, Highways Department Mr Cheung Kin-keung Deputy Managing Director/Mannings (Asia) Consultants Ltd Mr Chong Sing-pui Project Engineer/Mannings (Asia) Consultants Ltd

Items 5(4) Mr SHUM Kai-shing Engineer/13 (W) Civil Engineering and

2 Development Department

Items 6(1) Mr LI Kwok-leung Chief Structural Engineer/Kowloon and Rail Buildings Department Mr YIP Chi-wang, Johnny Senior Structural Engineer/Rail 1, Buildings Department Mr LAU Chi-kin Developer’s Project/Registered Structural Engineer Mr Hung Ding-yuen Railway Protection& Surveying Manager/MTR Corporation Limited Ms Lam Yuen Public Relations Manager- External Affairs/ MTR Corporation Limited

Absent: Mr LUK Chung-hung, JP Mr MAN Mei-kwai Mr TANG Wing-ming, Jim

* * * * *

Opening Remarks

The Chairman welcomed Members and government department representatives to the third meeting of the Traffic and Transport Committee (“T&TC”) under the Yuen Long District Council (“YLDC”) in 2019.

Item 1︰（i） Briefings on the election procedures for the Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Committees under the Yuen Long District Council (T&TC Paper No. 36/2019)

2. Vice Chairman said that the letter from the Secretariat dated 25 April 2019 had informed the members that the chairmanship of the T&TC was vacant, so he would preside over the meeting until the new Chairman of T&TC was elected.

3. The Members noted about the above document.

（ii） Election of the Chairman of the Traffic and Transport Committee(T&TC)

4. Vice Chairman announced the election of the T&TC Chairman began.

5. Vice Chairman said that the nomination period ended at 9:00 a.m. on 9 May 2019 and the

3 Secretariat had received a nomination form with Mr CHING Chan-ming as the nominee for the Chairman of the Traffic and Transport Committee. His nomination had been made by Mr LEUNG Ming Kin and seconded by Ms YUEN MAN Yee and Mr TANG Cheuk Yin.

6. Vice Chairman announced that since only Mr CHING Chan Ming was nominated for the chairman of the T&TC, Mr CHING Chan Ming was elected as the Chairman of the T&TC for a term of office linked to the term of the current District Council, which was from 9 May to 31 December 2019.

[The meeting was then presided over by Mr CHING Chan-ming, the newly-elected T&TC Chairman.]

7. Mr CHING Chan-ming thanked the Members for their support and said that this Committee would continue to work hard to improve the traffic conditions in Yuen Long.

Item 2︰Confirmation of the minutes of the second meeting of the T&TC in 2019

8. The above minutes were confirmed by Members unanimously.

Item 3 : Proposed installation of an elevator at the footbridge spanning across Castle Peak Road - Yuen Long and Fung Cheung Road (Structure No.: NF130) under the “Universal Accessibility” Programme (T&TC Paper No.37 /2019)

9. The Chairman welcomed the following persons to the meeting:

Highway Department Senior Engineer 2/Universal Accessibility Mr YIU Chiu-chung Engineer 6/Universal Accessibility Mr HUI Chi-hung

Mannings (Asia) Consultants Limited Deputy Managing Director Mr CHEUNG Kin-keung Project Engineer Mr CHONG Sing-pui

10. Mr YIU Chiu Chung and Mr CHONG Sing Pui briefly introduced the above paper.

11. Members’ views on the issue were summarized as follows:

4 (1) In view of the gradual completion of the construction of nearby social welfare facilities, it was hoped that the Highways Department (HyD) would kick off the project as soon as possible;

(2) Members requested that the pedestrian access to the Transport Plaza and the Po On Building would remain open and unimpeded during the construction period, the power supply would be maintained normally and noise nuisance would be reduced;

(3) Members hoped that the guard rail at the entrance of Fung Cheung Road Garden could be widened to facilitate public access;

(4) Members recommended installing the traffic signs outside Pearl House on the footbridge to release more space to install the lifts closer to the road, thus increasing the width of the pedestrian access;

(5) Members hoped that the consultant company would provide the construction schedule, report the progress to the T&TC timely, and inquired about the expected issues of the project, such as the land rights issues;

(6) Members enquired about the progress of the additional lift projects at the footbridge (Structure No.: NF374) (Tin Fuk Road Project) crosses Tin Fuk Road near Exit D of Station, as well as at the footbridge crosses Ping Ha Road (Ping Ha Road Project) near the Exit B of (Structure No.: NF376);

(7) Members asked about the priority of HyD to develop various pedestrian access projects;

(8) Members recommended optimising the design of the elevator door, such as adding a sensor;

(9) Members proposed to expand the upper shelter of the lift waiting area;

(10) Members recommended expediting the lift speed;

(11) Members hoped that more pedestrian passages would be included in the development project until all locations proposed by the members were fully covered; and

5 (12) Members said that the footbridge across Castle Peak Road - Yuen Long and Fung Cheung Road would be connected to the footbridge at the south construction site of . Thus, it was expected that there would be a huge crowd using the bridge at that time and inquired about how would the relevant departments cope with that.

12. Mr YIU Chiu-chung gave a consolidated reply as follows:

(1) The project encountered various difficulties. For example, after conducting the excavation and logging work, it was found that the underground pipelines outside the footpaths of Fung Cheung Road Garden were really complicated. To speed up the progress of the project, it was hence recommended moving the proposed No. 2 lift inside of Fung Cheung Road Garden;

(2) The consultant company would follow up with the relevant Members on the idea to adjust the speed of the lifts;

(3) There were on-site inspections conducted together with the DC Members of the concerned constituencies and would reserve sufficient space for the pedestrians during the construction period;

(4) The HyD requested the consultant company to follow up with the Members' opinions;

(5) Shall the plan supported by the T&TC, the next step would be to enter into detailed design stage and proceed with the construction as soon as possible;

(6) The technical feasibility study was being carried out on the Tin Fuk Road Project. After completion of the feasibility study, the HyD would consult the T&TC for the results of the study and related preliminary construction proposals as soon as possible to formulate the direction for further progress of the project;

(7) The Ping Ha Road Project was under the responsibility of the Civil Engineering and Development Department. The HyD would reflect the views of the Members and follow-up on the progress with the relevant departments.

(8) The works within the vicinity would be considered as a whole to complement each other; and

6

(9) Projects not included in the Second Phase Programme would be incorporated into the Third Phase Programme. The HyD was preparing to hire a consultant to conduct a feasibility study.

13. Mr CHONG Sing-pui gave a consolidated reply as follows:

(1) He would reflect to the relevant departments that the Members wished to broaden the entrance railing of Fung Cheung Road Garden.

(2) He would work with the Transport Department (TD) and relevant departments to study the feasibility to install the traffic signs outside the Pearl House on the footbridge;

(3) The design of Lift No. 1 would replace the original location of the trees and would deploy lift with a smaller passenger capacity (designed to carry nine passengers). This type of lift would occupy lesser pedestrian width and thus minimize the impact on the width of the original footpath;

(4) The width of the corresponding temporary footpath would be provided according to the pedestrian flow, and it was technically feasible to relocate the underground utility pipeline. He would follow up with the relevant public utilities and report the progress to the T&TC timely;

(5) Relevant temporary measures would be developed according to the established standards, such as providing lighting systems and soundproofing fabrics;

(6) He would work with the lift company to study and enhance the design of the lifts and that most lifts come with a waiting area; and

(7) Regarding the Tin Fuk Road project, the HyD had completed the preliminary survey works in February this year and would report the progress to the T&TC in due course.

14. The Chairman concluded that the department should start the construction of retrofitting lifts at the footbridge across the Castle Peak Road - Yuen Long section and Fung Cheung Road (structure No. NF130) as soon as possible. During the construction period, the department should co-operate with the stakeholders. A letter shall be sent to the Civil Engineering and Development

7 Department by the Secretary to follow up on the progress of the Ping Ha Road project.

(Post-meeting note: The Secretariat had sent a letter to the HyD on 15 May 2019 to reflect the views of the Members. On 29 May of the same year, the relevant reply was forwarded to the relevant Members for their reference.)

Item 4︰Matters arising: (1) Ms LAU Kwai-yung, Mr YIU Kwok-wai, Mr TANG Cheuk-him and the Hon LUK Chung-hung, JP requested that more night time parking spaces be provided at (T&TC Paper No. 14 /2019）

15. Members’ views on the issue were summarized as follows:

(1) Members were disappointed about the written reply from the department and the fact that the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) did not send staff to attend the meeting;

(2) The parking spaces in Tin Shui Wai were seriously inadequate. Members opined that the AFCD could release some parking spaces in the Hong Kong Wetland Park (Wetland Park) for public usage at night; and

(3) Members indicated that the relevant issues had been discussed on quite a number of occasions and it was expected the relevant departments could consider the proposals to increase the parking spaces in Tin Shui Wai.

16. Mr MAN Ka-ho indicated that the parking lot of the Wetland Park was managed by the AFCD. If the AFCD planned to open the relevant parking spaces, the TD would adopt an open attitude to provide advices on transport technology. The TD was also aware of the views of Members to increase parking spaces within Tin Shui Wai.

17. The Chairman concluded that members had proposed to open some parking spaces in the Wetland Park to the public for night parking. He felt that the relevant departments could actively consider the relevant views and hoped that the TD can carry out the mediation work and the Secretariat would send a letter to AFCD on this issue.

(Post-meeting Note: The Secretariat sent a letter to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation

8 Department on 15 May 2019 to reflect the views of the Members. On 28 May of the same year, the reply was forwarded to the relevant Members for their reference.)

(2) Mr MAK Ip-sing, Ms CHAN Mei-lin, Mr WONG Wai-yin, Zachary, the Hon KWONG Chun-yu, Mr TO Ka-lun and Mr LAM Ting-wai requested that traffic problems at Fung Yau Street North be improved (T&TC Paper No.16/2019）

18. Members’ views on the issue were summarized as follows:

(1) Traffic at the junction of Fung Yau Street North and Fung Cheung Road was really busy. Traffic accidents were frequent and vehicles were often parked at the pedestrian crossings, it was likely to pose hazard to the public, recommended constructing traffic lights and pedestrian crossings there.

(2) Members suggested that if it was not possible to construct traffic lights and pedestrian crossings in that area, could consider to extend the time of flashing "green man sign" at the pedestrian crossings of Fung Cheung Street;

(3) Members recommended adding a Drive Slowly sign at the southbound direction of Fung Cheung Road;

(4) Members recommended considering a new road construction to divert the traffic flow in the long run;

(5) Members proposed to re-plan the traffic arrangements at the intersections, such as adding flyovers or tunnels, relocating minibus stops, adding traffic lights and removing some greenery;

(6) Members recommended conducting joint on-site inspections with the TD at the relevant junctions; and

(7) Members indicated that the TD, as a technical department, should further elaborate and provide advice if the comments made by the Members were considered as unfeasible.

19. Mr MAN Ka-ho indicated that the TD had set up a 'Be Careful of the Junction in Front" traffic sign and painted the road surface with the “Drive Slowly” road marking, as well as painted the

9 “Drive Slowly” road marking on the entrance of the minibus station at Fung Cheung Road to improve road Safety. The TD would keep abreast of the Members' opinions and requests to conduct on-site inspections, and would follow-up accordingly.

20. The Chairman concluded that he hoped that the relevant departments could consider the opinions of the Members, conduct on-site inspections with the Members, and actively follow up to improve the related traffic problems.

(3) The Hon KWONG Chun-yu, Mr WONG Wai-yin, Zachary, Mr MAK Ip-sing, Ms CHAN Mei-lin, Mr TO Ka-lun and Mr LAM Ting-wai requested that noise problem arising from the movement joints of the flyover be alleviated (T&TC Paper No.18/2019）

21. Members’ views on the issue were summarized as follows:

(1) Members opined that the materials and design used in the expansion joints of the bridge sections caused noise issues;

(2) Members considered that it was unreasonable for the expansion joints to act as a buffer to the natural cold-shrinkage and heat-expansion effects of the bridge, and yet at the same time assume the drainage function. This caused the expansion joint being extensively wide, and produced a lot of noises when vehicle passed through, thus seriously affected the nearby residents;

(3) Members enquired whether the materials used in the expansion joints were restricted by the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) and whether other materials had been tested to reduce the noise; if so, whether the HyD would consider replacing the existing materials;

(4) Members expressed disappointment on the reply of the department and believed that the relevant departments should actively cooperate to solve the noise issues; and

(5) Members opined that the HyD could take the initiative to consult EPD about improvement in the existing expansion joint materials and design.

22. Mr SHIH Yung Chi noted the views of the Members, would continue to inspect the status of the existing expansion joints regularly and repair as necessary. The proposal to improve the design and materials of the expansion joints to reduce the noise is an environmental improvement

10 measure, which should be considered by the EPD. The HyD was willing to follow up with the relevant departments. At the moment, the HyD used two different expansion joints in different places and both cannot replace each other. The EPD provided different options for the expansion joints. The HyD would select suitable expansion joints according to the actual conditions of different locations.

23. The Chairman concluded that the noise issue of expansion joints was a territory-wide issue in Hong Kong that affected residents and expected the relevant departments to cooperate with each other to propose the solutions

(4) Mr YIU Kwok-wai, Ms LAU Kwai-yung, Mr TANG Cheuk-him and the Hon LUK Chung-hung, JP expressed concerns over the traffic safety of the Hong Kong Section of the Shenzhen Bay Bridge after a snapped tendon had been found (T&TC Paper No.19 /2019）

24. Members’ views on the issue were summarized as follows:

(1) Members were concerned about the safety issue of the Hong Kong Section of the Shenzhen Bay Bridge;

(2) Members asked the HyD about the follow-up of the broken steel cable to ensure safe driving;

(3) Members were concerned about the steel cables of other bridges;

(4) Members opined that a period of time passed since the incident had happened, but the work progress of the HyD was not satisfactory; it was recommended checking all the similar steel cables according to the steel cable type and announcing the results as soon as possible;

(5) Members asked shall the quality of the steel cable was found to be problematic, would the HyD seek accountability of the contractor;

(6) Members inquired whether the reopening of all lanes of the bridge indicated that the structure of the bridge was safe; and

(7) Members proposed to issue a letter expressing concerns and to continue the

11 discussion at the next meeting.

25. Mr SHIH Yung-chi said that the public could use the bridge with confidence after inspection by the engineer and the road structure was confirmed safe. The maintenance of the bridge steel cable was ongoing and the traffic conditions were now smooth. If further information was available, the HyD would announce it in due course.

26. The Chairman concluded that the Members felt unsatisfied with the reply of the department and hoped that the HyD would provide the Members with a more detailed reply and solve the issues concerned.

(Post-meeting note: The Secretariat had forwarded the reply of the HyD to the Members on 21 June 2019.)

(5) Mr SIU Long-ming, MH, Mr KWOK Keung, MH, Mr LUI Kin, MH, Ms WONG Wai-ling, Ms MA Shuk-yin, Mr CHUI Kwan-siu and Mr LI Kai-lap, Riben requested that a footbridge connecting Yuccie Square and West Rail be constructed (T&TC Paper No.20 /2019)

27. Members’ views on the issue were summarised as follows:

(1) Members indicated that the position of the pedestrian crossings set up by the TD on the Tai Kiu Road was different from the position previously requested by the Members and it was pointed out that the using rate of the pedestrian crossing was low;

(2) Members indicated that the Yuccie Square platform had been reserved for the footbridge connecting to the West Rail Long Ping Station. It was open 24 hours with lifts. If a footbridge could be built up, it would be in line with the public demands.

(3) Members said that Exit E of the West Rail Long Ping Station was only equipped with staircase. It was not convenient for the residents’ access. It was considered that a footbridge was needed to solve the problem;

(4) Members inquired whether the land title of the Yuccie Square had a reserved location for the construction of the connecting bridge, whether the relevant departments had considered the relevant requirements when implementing the

12 related plans, and inquired about the reasons for not constructing the footbridge;

(5) Members said that during the construction of the Yuccie Square, the Members had requested to build a footbridge connecting to the West Rail Long Ping Station, but the relevant departments did not support that; Some Members requested the TD to consider the construction of a footbridge to respond to the members' appeal.

(6) Members suggested that in case it was difficult to construct a footbridge connecting to the Yuccie Square, it was recommended constructing a footbridge connecting to the existing footbridge of Tai Kiu Road.

28. Mr MAN Ka-ho said that the TD had added pedestrian crossing lines to the outbound position between the first and second blocks of Tai Kiu Road in August 2018. It would continue to examine the actual situation of Tai Kiu Road to determine whether it was necessary to improve the pedestrian traffic facilities at that area. The TD had no plans to construct a footbridge connecting the Yuccie Square to the West Rail Long Ping Station. However, it had noted the views of Members and would further study the said request.

29. The Chairman concluded that TD should consider improving the existing pedestrian traffic facilities and carefully consider the Members' recommendations to respond to the needs of the residents.

(6) Mr LI Kai-lap, Riben, Mr KWOK Keung, MH, Mr LUI Kin, MH, Mr SIU Long-ming, MH, Ms WONG Wai-ling, Ms MA Shuk-yin and Mr CHUI Kwan-siu requested that minor traffic improvement works at the junction of Hong Yip Street, Po Yip Street and Tak Yip Street be expedited to provide a pedestrian refuge, enhance pedestrian crossing facilities and install pedestrian lights (T&TC Paper No.21 /2019)

30. Members’ views on the issue were summarised as follows:

(1) Members enquired about the reasons for the delay of the works; and

(2) Although the TD considered that the traffic flow was low and additional facilities were not necessary in the area after on-site inspections, Members believed that it would enhance road safety for residents if pedestrian lights or appropriate traffic signs could be installed since the site concerned was junction of three roads.

13

31. Mr LEE Kar-chun, Wilson said that after conducting on-site inspections, the TD considered that clear view of the road and proper pedestrian crossing facilities were available at the junction and the traffic condition was satisfactory. The TD had no plans to install pedestrian lights at present, and had arranged for the HyD to install a pedestrian refuge at the junction of Hong Yip Street near Tung Tau Industrial Area Playground. The TD would also monitor the traffic conditions and examine the traffic signs at the junction concerned.

32. Mr SHIH Yung-chi said that the HyD had received the TD’s request and was applying for the temporary traffic control measures and the excavation permit. The HyD would implement the works as soon as possible, and the works were expected to be completed in the third quarter of 2019.

33. The Chairman concluded that relevant departments’ improvement measures and expected completion dates were noted. He hoped that the works concerned would be completed by relevant departments as planned.

(7) The Hon KWONG Chun-yu, Mr WONG Wai-yin, Zachary, Mr MAK Ip-sing, Ms CHAN Mei-lin, Mr TO Ka-lun and Mr LAM Ting-wai requested that illegal parking at Fuk Hi Street be addressed (T&TC Paper No.22 /2019)

34. Members’ views on the issue were summarised as follows:

(1) Members hoped that the Police would further provide the data of illegal parking at Fuk Hi Street; and

(2) Members said that the issue of illegal parking at Fuk Hi Street had seriously affected nearby residents. Members hoped that the Police would step up enforcement efforts.

35. Mr CHAN Ting-hong, Terence said that he would enhance liaison with the Police to patrol and investigate illegal parking offences.

36. Mr LEUNG Wai-yip said that the Police closely monitored the situation of illegal parking and had stepped up the enforcement by issuing penalty tickets. In the long run, he believed that railings could be installed on the pedestrian footpaths to prevent vehicles from parking illegally on the pedestrian footpaths. He also believed that increasing the parking spaces on both sides of Fuk

14 Hi Street to alleviate the shortage of parking spaces could be considered.

37. The Chairman concluded that the lack of parking spaces at Fuk Hi Street had resulted in the issue of illegal parking. He suggested that the relevant departments should cooperate and consider the provision of a temporary parking area nearby.

Item 5︰Questions raised by Members (1) Mr WONG Wai-shun, MH and Ms KWOK Ching-yin requested that white solid lines be provided at the Yuen Long bound exit of Pok Oi Interchange (T&TC Paper No. 38/2019)

38. Members’ views on the issue were summarised as follows:

(1) Members considered that the road design of the Yuen Long bound exit of Pok Oi Interchange needed to be improved and frequently caused accidents. Members suggested that the TD should mark the site with additional white solid lines. In addition, Members enquired about the standards of the provision of white solid lines by the TD;

(2) Members enquired about the Police’s views on the traffic conditions of the interchange;

(3) Some Members disagreed with the provision of white solid lines. It was considered that white solid lines were ineffective and would aggravate the traffic congestion at present. However, other Members believed that it would inflict greater impacts if traffic accidents were resulted from not marking white solid lines;

(4) Some Members suggested setting up additional traffic lights at the roundabout. However, some Members disagreed and considered that the traffic flow would not be effectively diverted by traffic lights, and the situation of traffic congestion may possibly be aggravated;

(5) Members suggested to construct more roads to the city centre of Yuen Long to alleviate the traffic flow of Pok Oi Interchange to reduce accidents; and

(6) Members believed that accidents had been caused by some drivers who did not

15 use the roundabout appropriately. Members hoped that relevant departments would step up relevant publicity efforts

39. Mr LEE Kar-chun gave a consolidated reply as follows:

(1) The number of reported accidents involving injuries was 8;

(2) According to the “Road User’s Code”, drivers should give way to the vehicles coming from the right side on the roundabout when entering the roundabout, and should only enter the roundabout when the road ahead was cleared;

(3) He pointed out that there was only one lane on the slip road to at Pok Oi Interchange. For this reason, the junction had been marked with a solid-cum-broken white line;

(4) He pointed out that the roundabout automatically regulated the entering traffic flows and was more flexible than traffic lights. He believed that the current operation and performance of the roundabout was satisfactory;

(5) He pointed out that the TD had introduced road safety information on the official website, and would pay further attention to the needs of stepping up education efforts;

(6) The TD was in the process of reviewing the road markings near Point I at Pok Oi Interchange on the slip road to the city centre of Yuen Long; and

(7) He said that Members’ views on constructing the road were noted and improvement measures would be further examined.

40. The Chairman concluded that he hoped the TD would further examine and improve the traffic conditions at the junction concerned.

(2) Mr CHAM Ka-hung, Daniel, BBS, MH, JP condemned the Highways Department for its unsatisfactory follow ups on maintenance works (T&TC Paper No.3 9 /2019)

41. Members’ views on the issue were summarised as follows:

16

(1) Members indicated that the ground surface which was public property belonging to government was damaged by private development works. However, the pace of the maintenance works of the site concerned was slow. Members enquired whether the Government would request reimbursement of the works costs from the company concerned since the ground surface was restored by the Government;

(2) Members indicated that there had been damage reoccurrence soon after completing road surface maintenance works. Members believed that the HyD should take the initiative to solve the problem thoroughly by resurfacing the road;

(3) There had been broken e-ATSs not being repaired for a long time. Members believed that the HyD should step up regular active inspection efforts; and

(4) Some Members were satisfied with the HyD’s progress of other works.

42. Mr SHIH Yung-chi said that the HyD would handle the works concerned as soon as possible. Regarding whether the Government would request the reimbursement of the works costs from the company concerned, the HyD would give response after consulting relevant teams. The HyD would first repair the damaged road surface as soon as possible after damages were discovered by the HyD. Regular inspections would be conducted to determine whether resurfacing works was required. The EMSD was responsible for the maintenance of e-ATS. When relevant damage reports were received by the HyD, they would be referred to the departments concerned for follow-ups. The HyD would also demand the contractor to step up inspection efforts of the roads where maintenance works was under the charge of the HyD.

43. The Chairman concluded that the department should enhance the communication with Members to expedite the handling of relevant issues.

(3) Ms CHAN Mei-lin, Mr MAK Ip-sing, Mr WONG Wai-yin, Zachary, the Hon KWONG Chun-yu and Mr TO Ka-lun requested that automatic underground multi-storey car parks be constructed in Yuen Long District (T&TC Paper No.40/2019) (4) Mr SHUM Ho-kit, JP, Mr LEUNG Ming-kin, Ms YUEN Man-yee, Mr YOUNG Ka-on, Mr CHEUNG Muk-lam, Mr TANG Yung-yiu, Ronnie, Mr CHAM Ka-hung, Daniel, BBS, MH, JP, Mr YIU Kwok-wai, Mr LAU Kwai-yung, Mr CHOW Wing-kan, Mr MAK Ip-sing, Mr TANG Hing-ip, BBS , Ms CHAN Mei-lin, Mr

17 TANG Ka-leung, Mr TO Ka-lun, Mr TANG Cheuk-yin, Mr WONG Cheuk-kin, Mr WONG Wai-yin, Zachary, Mr MA Shuk-yin, Ms WONG Wai-ling, Mr TANG Cheuk-him, the Hon LUK Chung-hung, JP, Mr NG Ka-leung and Mr CHEUNG Wai-sum requested that underground multi-storey parking systems be built in Tin Shui Wai, Centre and rural areas (T&TC Paper No.41/2019) (5) Mr KWOK Keung, MH, Mr LUI Kin, MH, Mr SIU Long-ming, MH, Ms WONG Wai-ling, Ms MA Shuk-yin, Mr CHUI Kwan-siu and Mr LI Kai-lap, Riben proposed to discuss provision of more parking spaces by encouraging the construction of automated car parks in all districts (T&TC Paper No.42/2019)

44. The Chairman suggested merging the three items and discussing them together since the three agenda items were relevant to one another.

45. The Chairman welcomed the following person to the meeting:

Civil Engineering and Development Department

Engineer/13 (West) Mr SHUM Kai-shing

46. Members’ views on the issue were summarised as follows:

(1) Members welcomed the Government to take reference from other countries’ technology and introduce automatic underground multi-storey car parks in Yuen Long District as soon as possible. It was suggested to consider Tung Tau Industrial Area Playground, Tung Lok Street, Sai Ching Street, Tin Shui Wai Park and the KMB Depot on Tin Pak Road, etc. as pilot testing sites. Some Members considered that implementing the technology concerned in new development areas only would not help solve the issues of insufficient parking spaces and illegal parking in Yuen Long District;

(2) Members considered that adopting automatic mechanical multi-storey parking frames would better utilize the space and increase efficiency comparing to the old-style car park buildings. Some Members suggested that the technology concerned could be piloted at existing parking areas with parking meters. Another Member suggested that the views of regional stakeholders should be fully consulted before piloting the technology concerned;

18

(3) Members suggested considering constructing self-service car park;

(4) Members suggested considering constructing car park in caves;

(5) Members enquired of the District Lands Office whether it would consider relaxing the lease conditions or short-term tenancy to encourage car park operators and developers to introduce automatic car parks of different types. In addition, Members suggested considering relaxing the existing restrictions on brownfield car parks;

(6) Members suggested that the Government should speed up identifying suitable sites for the construction of multi-storey car parks through a “construct, operate and transfer” mode;

(7) Members believed that parking spaces should be increased as soon as possible to suppress and stabilize the rental prices of car parks;

(8) Members believed that sufficient parking spaces should be provided to serve the public, while financial sustainability should not be taken as the sole factor for consideration;

(9) Members considered that the planned proportion of parking spaces and population in the Hong Kong Planning Standards and Guidelines (HKPSG) was inadequate to meet the current demand. Some Members suggested considering adding the requirements for the application of parking space technologies in the HKPSG;

(10) Members enquired of the TD when it had researched and decided to introduce automatic underground multi-storey car parks, and the reasons for selecting Sham Shui Po to launch the pilot scheme;

(11) Members enquired about the charging standards of automatic underground multi-storey car parks; and

(12) Members suggested considering introducing automatic parking system for bicycles.

47. Mr SHUM Kai-shing said that the Civil Engineering and Development Department (CEDD) conducted a feasibility study on pedestrian and bicycle friendly environment of the Hung

19 Shui Kiu New Development Area and Yuen Long South Development in March 2018, including the review of the preliminarily proposed pedestrian footpaths and cycling track network in the Outline Development Plan, the examination of different types of crossing facilities, bicycle parking spaces (in addition to conventional bicycle parking spaces, the adoption of new bicycle parking racks and underground bicycle parking systems etc. would be examined) and bicycle rental services. The study was expected to be completed in 2020.

48. Mr MAN Ka-ho, Wilson said that the Members' views on the scheme were noted and the sites suggested by Members would be followed up and evaluated. The YLDC would be consulted on the scheme in due course. If necessary, a traffic impact assessment would be conducted before the construction of the facility concerned. The TD would provide further information to the YLDC on the automatic parking system in due course.

49. Mr NG Ping-tong, Gordon said that the Lands Department (LandsD) would keep an open mind on the suggestion to relax the lease conditions to encourage existing car park operators and developers to introduce more automatic car parks of different types. If the suggestion would involve modification to the lease conditions, the LandsD would consult relevant departments, seek support from the Policy Bureaux, and process the application in accordance with the applicable procedures.

50. Mr SHUM Ho-kit, JP proposed the following motion, which was seconded by Mr CHAM Ka-hung, Daniel, BBS, MH, JP, Ms CHAN Mei-lin, Mr CHEUNG Muk-lam, Ms CHIU Sau-han, MH, Mr CHOW Wing-kan, Mr KWOK Keung, MH, Ms LAU Kwai-yung, Mr LEE Yuet-man, MH, Mr LEUNG Ming-kin, Mr LUI Kin, MH, Ms MA Shuk-yin, Mr MAK Ip-sing, Mr SIU Long-ming, Mr TANG Hing-ip, BBS, Mr TANG Ka-leung, Mr TO Ka-lun, Mr WONG Cheuk-kin, Ms WONG Wai-ling, Mr WONG Wai-shun, MH, Mr YIU Kwok-wai, Mr YOUNG Ka-on and Ms YUEN Man-yee.

“The YLDC requested the Government to construct an automatic underground parking system and an automatic underground bicycle parking system in Yuen Long District as soon as possible to alleviate the situation of inadequate parking spaces in Yuen Long.”

51. Members voted on the above motion by the show of hands and open ballot. The following Members favoured the aforesaid motion: Mr MAK Ip-sing, Mr CHAM Ka-hung, Daniel, BBS, MH, JP, Mr CHEUNG Muk-lam, Ms CHIU Sau-han, MH, Mr CHOW Wing-kan, Mr KWOK Keung, MH, Mr KWOK Hing-ping, The Hon KWONG Chun-yu, Mr LEE Yuet-man, MH, Mr LEUNG Fuk-yuen, Ms MA Shuk-yin, Ms WONG Wai-ling, Mr MAN Kwong-ming, Mr SHUM Ho-kit, JP,

20 Mr SIU Long-ming, Mr TANG Cheuk-yin, Mr TANG Hing-ip, BBS, Mr TANG Ka-leung, Mr TO Ka-lun, Mr WONG Wai-shun, MH, Ms LAU Kwai-yung, Mr YIU Kwok-wai, Ms CHAN Mei-lin, Mr YOUNG Ka-on, Ms YUEN Man-yee, Mr LEUNG Ming-kin, Mr WONG Wai-yin, Zachary, Mr CHAN Tin-yam, Mr CHEUNG Wai-sum, Mr CHUI Kwan-siu, Ms KWOK Ching-yin, Mr LAM Ting-wai, Mr LI Kai-lap, Riben, Mr NG Ka-leung, Mr TANG Kam-fai and Mr TANG Wing-ming, Jim.

52. The Chairman concluded that there were 23 votes in favour of the motion, zero votes against and zero votes abstained. The motion was passed with an absolute majority.

53. The Chairman concluded that the parking spaces in Yuen Long District were insufficient. He hoped that relevant departments would take Members' views into consideration and construct an automatic underground multi-storey car park in Yuen Long District as soon as possible.

(Post-meeting note: The Secretariat had sent a letter to the TD, the CEDD and the LandsD on 15 May 2019 to convey Members' views. Replies from the TD and the CEDD were passed to Members for reference on May 28 of the same year.)

(6) Mr LI Kai-lap, Riben, Mr KWOK Keung, MH, Mr LUI Kin, MH, Mr SIU Long-ming, MH, Ms WONG Wai-ling, Ms MA Shuk-yin and Mr CHUI Kwan-siu requested the Transport Department to enhance road crossing facilities at Road (T&TC Paper No.43/2019）

54. Members’ views on the issue were summarised as follows:

(1) Members pointed out that the speed of vehicles at the junction concerned was relatively high. The situation was not satisfactory since the crossing facilities at the site were too close to the junction and the view of the road was poor; and

(2) Members suggested that the TD consider reducing the speed of vehicles turning towards the junction and moving the crossing facility concerned to a location near Long Ching Estate.

55. Mr MAN Ka-ho, Wilson said that drivers should pay attention to the traffic conditions and whether pedestrians were on the road when turning from the main road to smaller roads. The TD had inspected the junction concerned where the "look left/look right" road signs had been

21 provided. The TD would further examine the possibility of marking additional hatched road markings at the junction to remind drivers to pay attention to the road conditions.

56. The Chairman concluded that he hoped the TD would consider further improving the crossing facility in accordance with the actual situation.

(7) Mr LI Kai-lap, Riben, Mr KWOK Keung, MH, Mr LUI Kin, MH, Mr SIU Long-ming, MH, Ms WONG Wai-ling, Ms MA Shuk-yin and Mr CHUI Kwan-siu requested that pedestrian crossings be provided at Long Yip Street (T&TC Paper No.44/2019)

57. Members’ views on the issue were summarised as follows:

(1) Members considered that the design of the pedestrian crossing at the junction of Long Yip Street and Po Yip Street was too tortuous, which may cause accidents since pedestrians were not necessarily willing to use the facility concerned;

(2) Members suggested improving the design of the pedestrian crossing and adjusting1 the timing of the pedestrian crossing traffic lights; and

(3) Members suggested to provide an additional pedestrian crossing close to the open channel nearby.

58. Mr MAN Ka-ho, Wilson said that the traffic at the junction was busy and it would affect the overall operational efficiency of the junction to provide an additional pedestrian crossing facility. The TD would consider appropriate measures to guide pedestrians to use appropriate crossing facility and had no plans to provide additional pedestrian crossing on Long Yip Street.

59. The Chairman concluded that he hoped the TD would review the conditions of the junction in due course.

(8) Mr LUI Kin, MH, Mr KWOK Keung, MH, Mr SIU Long-ming, MH, Ms WONG Wai-ling, Ms MA Shuk-yin, Mr CHUI Kwan-siu and Mr LI Kai lap, Riben proposed to discuss expeditious provision of pedestrian crossings at Kau Yuk Road near On Hong Road (T&TC Paper No.45/2019)

22

60. Mr MAN Ka-ho, Wilson said that the TD had issued a construction notice to the HyD. At this stage, some technical matters and the temporary traffic arrangements were being followed up with relevant departments.

61. Mr SHIH Yung-chi said that the HyD would follow up the works concerned after the TD confirmed the works concerned.

62. The Chairman concluded that relevant departments were expected to review the feasibility of the works and implement the works concerned as soon as possible.

Item 6︰Item referred from Yuen Long District Council to T&TC: Mr LEE Yuet-man, MH proposed to discuss the goalposts should not be moved on the settlement readings for works suspension at Tin Wing Station (T&TC Paper No.46/2019)

63. The Chairman welcomed the following persons to the meeting:

Buildings Department

Chief Structural Engineer/Kowloon and Rail Mr LI Kwok-leung

Senior Structural Engineer/Rail 1 Mr YIP Chi-wang, Johnny

Best Vision Development Limited

Appointed Registered Project Structural Engineer Mr LAU Chi-kin

MTR Corporation Limited

Railway Protection & Land Surveying Manager Mr Hung Ding-yuen

Public Relations Manager- External Affairs Ms Lam Yuen

64. Members’ views on the issue were summarised as follows:

(1) The MTR Corporation Limited (MTRCL) and the developer had applied to update

23 the goalpost for settlement readings several times since the commencement of the works. Members found the situation extremely unsatisfactory since the extent of settlement had increased from 20 mm to 96 mm. Some Members pointed out that the settlement of LRT Tin Wing Stop was higher than those of general railway protection areas. Members queried about the safety level of the updated goalpost for settlement readings;

(2) Members were dissatisfied about the MTRCL and the developer’s plan to further update the goalpost for settlement readings to 150 mm. Members believed that the goalpost could no longer be relaxed and the Buildings Department (BD) was requested to carefully consider the application concerned. In addition, Members enquired about the criteria and factors of consideration in vetting and approving applications to update the goalpost for settlement readings by the BD. Members worried that if similar cases occurred else where they would be handled in the same way;

(3) Members enquired about how the developer had calculated the goalpost for settlement readings be updated to 150 millimetres, and the mitigation measures to be put in place by the developer if the settlement continued after the goalpost was updated. Members worried that the developer would make further application to relax the goalpost for settlement readings. Members also enquired about the mitigation measures to be put in place by the MTRCL;

(4) Members enquired about the details of the mitigation measures proposed by the developer. Members considered that the measures such as constructing temporary steel pipe protection piles by drilling would not reduce the settlement effectively. Some Members believed that the mitigation measures proposed by the developer should be adopted since the commencement of the works;

(5) Members enquired about the reasons for the settlement to intensify after the work stoppage. Some Members believed that the mitigation measures were invalid since the settlement continued after the measures were taken, and dangers may be posed to the railway and residents;

(6) Members suggested that the BD report to the YLDC regularly on the conditions of the settlement;

(7) Members enquired to the extent of how many millimeters would the settlement

24 affect railway safety;

(8) Members queried about the guarantee given by relevant professionals on the safety of the works concerned;

(9) Members pointed out that the soil of the land concerned was of a special nature and enquired whether the BD had given consideration to whether the land was suitable for multi-layer development;

(10) Members pointed out that the LRT Tin Wing Stop was one of the major stops in Tin Shui Wai. Therefore, relevant departments, the MTRCL and the developer were required to ensure the safety of the stop and nearby residents. Some Members enquired whether relevant departments had requested the MTRCL and the developer to monitor the magnitude of settlement in nearby estates;

(11) Members pointed out that many people had chosen to take LRT from Chestwood Stop. The overcrowding situation at Chestwood Stop reflected the public's concern about the safety of Tin Wing Stop;

(12) Members believed that the BD should consult the YLDC before approving the works concerned to resume;

(13) Members considered that the general public could not understand technical responses. It was hoped that the BD, the MTRCL and the developer would clearly explain the situation and provide more comprehensive data of the settlement to relieve the residents' doubts; and

(14) Members believed that the BD should have submitted a response prior to the meeting. Members were dissatisfied that the BD, the MTRCL and the developer had not taken the initiative to explain the matter to the YLDC.

65. Mr LI Kwok-leung gave a consolidated reply as follows:

(1) He pointed out that the development of superstructures of LRT Tin Wing Stop had been stopped since 25 June 2018 until now. The BD, the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) and the MTRCL had been monitoring the situation closely to ensure the safety of the structures of railway facilities and operation of the railway. The BD had been sending staffs to inspect the site every

25 month and had not discovered obvious structural safety issues of the platform.

(2) Since the work stoppage of the project concerned in the end of June 2018, the revised plans of piling and excavation works had been submitted to the BD by the registered structural engineer of the project, including more proposals of mitigation measures, revised design and construction method, and stepping up the grouting works to improve the soil quality. The BD was in the process of reviewing the plans concerned stringently, and had consulted the views of relevant departments and the MTRCL;

(3) The BD had been closely communicating with the registered building professionals of the development project to ensure the safety of the works while avoiding further impact on the adjacent buildings and public facilities;

(4) At present, the proposed mitigation measures included:

i. Step up the grouting works below the platform and next to the remaining piles to further consolidate the soft soil below and nearby the platform, in order to reduce further settlement of the platform during the remaining works. The plan of the grouting works had been approved by the BD. The registered structural engineer of the development project would take samples for scientific analysis after the completion of the grouting works to confirm the effectiveness of the grouting works;

ii. Reduce the basement coverage of the development project, and move the partition wall close to the platform backwards for about 12 meters away from the site to further reduce the impact of the basement excavation works on the platform;

iii. Adopt steel pipe piles installed by drilling instead of steel sheet piles installed by percussive driving within 20 meters of the platform, in order to reduce the vibration generated during the works and the resulting settlement;

iv. Change the construction method of the bored piles within 20 meters of the platform. Specifically, temporary steel casing tubes underground would not be extracted and reused at the site, in order to avoid settlement caused by the movement of underground soil during the extraction of temporary

26 steel casing tubes;

v. Implement only one piling works at a time within 20 meters of the platform to minimize the possibility of increased settlement caused by the simultaneous commencement of different types of works.

(5) The registered structural engineer of the development project suggested stepping up monitoring of the settlement conditions of railway facilities in the revised plan. Besides setting up additional monitoring points and increasing the measurement frequency of monitoring points on the platform, it was also proposed to set up an electronic monitoring system to provide real-time surveillance on the latest settlement and movement of the platform and rails. In addition, the registered structural engineer of the development project would also conduct detailed analytical review of the structure of the platform regularly to ensure that the structure could withstand the possible settlement caused by the remaining works;

(6) If the plan concerned was approved by the BD, the works would be resumed in phases. It would be announced to the public and notified to the YLDC in accordance with the established procedures;

(7) He pointed out that the 20 mm goalpost for settlement readings originally established for the development project was the empirical goalpost based on the “Practice Note for Authorized Persons, Registered Structural Engineers and Registered Geotechnical Engineers” (PNAP), which required adjustments in accordance with the actual situation. The goalpost concerned needed to be updated since the soil quality of LRT Tin Wing Stop was softer than expected, and due to various other construction reasons. The registered structural engineer of the development project had selected the structures affected by the works concerned in accordance with the PNAP to conduct engineering analysis and assessment to preset a more realistic goalpost for temporary stoppage. The BD would evaluate the goalpost concerned in accordance with the Buildings Ordinance, relevant subsidiary legislations, and the regulations of PNAPs before approving the goalpost after careful consideration;

(8) He pointed out that the platform No. 7 of LRT Tin Wing Stop was a newly built concrete structure, and it was normal to have obvious settlement. The structure of the platform could withstand greater settlement without posing dangers. During the period of works stoppage, the extent of the change in settlement had

27 gradually slowed down;

(9) According to the developer's proposed mitigation measures and the remaining works, the estimated stoppage goalpost was 150 mm. If the plans of piling and excavation works of the development project were approved, the BD would request the works of the development project to resume in phases after conducting tests to verify the configuration of the design of the works, in order to relieve residents' doubts. The BD would also request the developer to adopt a series of measures after resuming the works to enhance the surveillance of the site and settlement as well as public communication arrangements;

(10) Settlement monitoring points were set up around the site to ensure that the nearby estates were not affected by the settlement; and

(11) He emphasized that the revised preset stoppage goalpost was not necessarily applicable to other projects in railway protection areas.

66. Mr LAU Chi-kin gave a consolidated reply as follows:

(1) The safety of the public and railway had been prioritized by the engineering consultancy team of the project. The team had been supervising the works and the settlement data of Tin Wing Stop in accordance with the approved plan to ensure that the public and railway facilities were within safety limits;

(2) The site was situated on a marine depositional clay layer, while the mud layer under Tin Wing Stop was the thickest and the soil was relatively soft. It was easier to cause deformed settlement during the process of piling, and greater settlement was expected by the team. The design of the platform was a one-box cast-in-place concrete structure which was more resistant to greater settlement;

(3) Since the work stoppage of Tin Wing Stop Development Project in July 2018, the engineering consultancy team of the project had been in close contact with relevant government departments and the MTRCL to discuss appropriate mitigation measures and construction plans, and to analyze the data, soil quality, the impact of excavation works on the platform, and the structure of the platform in an iterative manner in order to establish a solid and safe works plan. After the discussion, the engineering consultants of the project suggested the developer to adopt a series of mitigation measures to ensure the safety of the railway service

28 and nearby residents after the works resumed. Among them were:

i. Multi-layer land reinforcement with high-cost ultra-fine cement injections;

ii. Reduce the coverage of underground car park to keep it away from the temporary platform, in order to reduce the impact of the car park works on the platform;

iii. Install temporary steel pipe protection piles by drilling instead of temporary steel plate pile walls constructed with vibration to reduce the settlement of soil layers;

iv. Reduce the number of pre-bored steel H-piles near the temporary platform to reduce the impact of the overall bored pile works on the platform;

v. Adopt the “pipe-in-pipe” construction method and the advanced water circulation drilling method to minimize possible settlement caused by the works of the project;

vi. Set up settlement monitoring points at the LRT platform and rails and conduct 24-hour real-time surveillance to ensure regular operation and safety of LRT; and

vii. Limit the number of machines within 20 meters of the platform and implement only one type of piling works at a time, in order to minimize possible settlement caused by simultaneous commencement of different types of works.

(4) The team had conducted a comprehensive structural assessment. By adding up current readings of the settlement and the simulation readings after the works resume in the future, it was concluded that the settlement would not adversely affect the structure and was in compliance with the safety design standards of the BD;

(5) The maximum settlement reading was expected to reach 150 mm after the completion of foundation, excavation and basement works. The team had applied to the BD to update the goalpost for settlement readings.

29 67. Mr HUNG Ding-yuen gave a consolidated reply as follows:

(1) Safety was the primary principle of the MTRCL's operation and would never be compromised. The MTRCL had an internationally recognized, comprehensive and rigorous maintenance regime of railway infrastructures and assets, to ensure that railway facilities were maintained in safe and good conditions at all times to protect passengers, staff and the public. At the same time, the MTRCL had a rigorous and comprehensive set of railway protection measures to be implemented by the dedicated Railway Protection Unit under the Buildings Ordinance or other applicable legislations;

(2) LRT Tin Wing Stop was situated on softer soil and greater settlement was expected. The MTRCL had been closely monitoring the conditions since the works commence;

(3) Surveillance had been conducted to monitor the smoothness of the rails, the height and distance between the rails, platforms and overhead cables. An additional 24-hour real-time monitoring system was set up to increase the density of surveillance and to determine whether the railway condition was in compliance with operational safety standards. The settlement level of the monitoring points was within the safety limits. The conclusion was also confirmed by relevant government departments to be safe;

(4) He suggested to set up an additional 24-hour real-time monitoring system to increase the density of surveillance and to take corresponding measures more quickly; and

(5) The suggestions on the follow-up works of LRT Tin Wing Stop had been carefully examined. The latest conditions, including the conditions after completing the mitigation measures, would be closely monitored. At present, there were more than 400 monitoring points that allowed the engineering staffs to make corresponding adjustments to the railway facilities in a timely manner. It was expected that the proposed follow-up works and the mitigation measures would not affect the safety of railway operations. Of course, the MTRCL would agree with the works being resumed by the developer only after the application for resumption of the works was approved by relevant government departments.

68. Ms LAM Yuen gave a consolidated reply as follows:

30

(1) At present, the platform No. 7 of LRT Tin Wing Stop was a temporary platform. After the completion of the project, multiple platforms would be established on the foundation instead of on the soil. At the same time, setting up multiple platforms would be convenient for the deployment of vehicles and for passengers to use the railway service;

(2) She noticed that it was less convenient for passengers to enter and exit Tin Wing Stop comparing to the past. As a result, more passengers started taking LRT from other stops. The MTRCL had increased the number of special shifts on some routes during peak hours to divert passengers; and

(3) The air cushion of LRT vehicles was designed to facilitate passengers to board and alight vehicles. The MTRCL would also examine other measures to assist passengers with wheelchairs to board and alight vehicles.

69. The Chairman concluded that the repeated relaxation of the goalpost for settlement readings had worried the residents. He hoped that relevant units would pay close attention to the conditions of the settlement, and identify the causes of the settlement to solve the problem instead of updating the goalpost repeatedly. In addition, accurate data should be provided to the YLDC for reference. He believed that it would be difficult to resume the works without the approval of the YLDC.

Item 7︰ Progress report from the Transport Department (T&TC Paper No. 47/2019)

70. Members noted the above paper.

Item 8︰ Progress report from the Highways Department (T&TC Paper No. 48/2019)

71. Members’ views on the issue were summarised as follows:

(1) Members hoped that the following works would be completed as soon as possible: the works of additional traffic lane at the junction of Shap Road and Fung Ki Road, the provision of additional pedestrian refuge and improvement

31 works of pedestrian crossing facility at Tin Tan Street near Tin Shui Wai Hospital, the widening works of pedestrian footpath at Road near Castle Peak Road (Yuen Long section), the removal of existing flower beds and the provision of pedestrian footpath at Kwong Yip Street near Wang Fu Court, the road widening works of Kiu Hing Road and Kung Um Road near Park Signature, the provision of additional pedestrian refuge and tactile warning strips at Road, the provision of additional road signs at Yuen Long Highway, Shap Pat Heung Interchange, Tai Shu Ha Road East and Tai Tong Road, the road widening works at the junction of Kin Lok Street and Fung Cheung Road, and the provision of road exit at Kin Tak Street near Ma Tong Road;

(2) Members enquired about the progress of the following works: the bus stop extension works at Tin Shui Road near Tin Shui Court Bus Terminus, the pedestrian refuge widening works and provision of tactile warning strips at Tin Shui Road near Tin Heng Estate Bus Terminus, the road sign removal works at Tin Sau Road near Yin Fu House, the provision of additional parking spaces for disabled people at Fung Yau Street North near Yik Fat Building, and the road widening works at Tai Tong Road near Tai Kei Leng Road;

(3) Members considered that the relocation progress of existing trees at Sai Ching Street near St Lorraine English Kindergarten was not satisfactory;

(4) Members enquired about whether the works site of tree relocation and provision of additional road junction at Shap Pat Heung Road near La Grove was the same site as the one-way road works of Park Signature; and

(5) Members enquired about the progress of other works not in the progress report, including the pedestrian refuge widening works in Tin Shui Estate towards Chestwood Court, and the one-time access works of the pedestrian crossing across LRT Tin Shui Stop.

72. Mr MAN Ka-ho, Wilson gave a consolidated reply as follows:

(1) The construction paper for the pedestrian refuge widening works of Chestwood Court had been issued to the HyD; and

(2) The improvement works of the pedestrian crossing at LRT Tin Shui Stop involved alteration of the control modes of traffic lights. The construction paper had been

32 issued to the EMSD and Members would be informed of the progress of the works after the meeting.

73. Mr LEE Kar-chun, Wilson said that the HyD was conducting preliminary works on the removal works of the existing flower beds and the provision of pedestrian footpath at Kwong Yip Street near Wang Fu Court. The TD and the HyD could examine the feasibility of setting up a temporary access.

74. Mr SHIH Yung-chi gave a consolidated reply as follows:

(1) He noted Members' views on the road works and would enhance communication with relevant departments to expedite the works progress;

(2) The planning for the works of additional traffic lane at the junction of Shap Pat Heung Road and Fung Ki Road was being conducted, relevant departments were being consulted, and the details of the works concerned were being revised;

(3) The HyD was following up with the TD the Police’s advice on the temporary traffic diversion arrangements for the road widening works at the junction of Kin Lok Street and Fung Cheung Road;

(4) He would examine the possibility of expediting the works of the road exit at Kin Tak Street near Ma Tong Road;

(5) The bus stop extension works at Tin Shui Road near Tin Shui Court Bus Terminus and the provision of additional pedestrian refuge and improvement works of pedestrian crossing facility at Tin Tan Street near Tin Shui Wai Hospital would be processed as soon as possible.

(6) The planning for the widening works of pedestrian footpath at Tai Tong Road near Castle Peak Road (Yuen Long section) would be completed soon. The works was expected to be completed as soon as possible;

(7) Temporary traffic diversion arrangements were being made for the pedestrian refuge widening works and provision of tactile warning strips at Tin Shui Road near Tin Heng Estate Bus Terminus;

(8) The road sign removal works at Tin Sau Road near Yin Fu House would be

33 completed as soon as possible;

(9) The preliminary works of the removal of existing flower beds and the provision of pedestrian footpath at Kwong Yip Street near Wang Fu Court was being implemented;

(10) A contractor had been entrusted with the relocation works of existing trees at Sai Ching Street near St Lorraine English Kindergarten to implement the works;

(11) Regarding the road widening works of Kiu Hing Road and Kung Um Road near Park Signature, the HyD and the contractor had found that the road surface condition of the site was not as expected, and the advice on the structural impact of the works was being consulted;

(12) Regarding the provision of additional pedestrian refuge and tactile warning strips at Shap Pat Heung Road, the temporary traffic diversion arrangements were being discussed with relevant departments. The works would be implemented as soon as possible after the vetting and approving process;

(13) Most of the installation works of additional road signs at Yuen Long Highway, Shap Pat Heung Interchange, Tai Shu Ha Road East and Tai Tong Road had been completed. The works were expected to be completed in the third quarter of 2019;

(14) The tree relocation and provision of additional road junction at Shap Pat Heung Road was an ancillary works of the Park Signature Project. The trees would be relocated as soon as possible after the modification of underground facilities;

(15) The preliminary planning for the road widening works at Tai Tong Road near Tai Kei Leng Road was being conducted and would be reported to Members in due course;

(16) The pedestrian refuge widening works in Tin Shui Estate towards Chestwood Court, and the one-time access works of the pedestrian crossing across LRT Tin Shui Stop would be added to the progress report; and

(17) The provision of additional parking spaces for disabled people at Fung Yau Street North near Yik Fat Building would be processed as soon as possible.

34

75. The Chairman concluded that he hoped that the HyD would implement the works concerned as soon as possible.

Item 9︰ Statistics on cycling accidents and related enforcement actions (T&TC Paper No.49 /2019)

76. Members’ views on the issue were summarised as follows:

(1) Members considered that the usage conditions of bicycles and electric unicycles by the public on footpaths and footbridges was unsatisfactory. Members hoped that the Police would pay attention to the situation; and

(2) Members enquired about whether electric unicycles were classified as "vehicles" and regulated under relevant legislations.

77. Mr LEUNG Wai-yip said that the Police would continue to take enforcement actions and step up relevant education efforts. At present, electric unicycles were not classified as vehicles. However, the Police could invoke the Summary Offences Ordinance and take enforcement actions if the users of electric unicycles endangered the safety of other road users.

Item 10︰ Any other business

78. There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 4:10 p.m.

Yuen Long District Council Secretariat June 2019

35